NEW CITY, NY – Rockland County Executive Ed Day joined local officials and advocates to declare Domestic Violence Awareness month in Rockland County.

"Domestic violence is a scourge," he said. "It's something we all need to recognize for what it is – entrapment, reliance on an abuser, there are so many dynamics to this issue."

He was joined by Rockland County District Attorney Thomas Zugibe, Family Court Judge Sherri Eisenpress and Elizabeth Santiago, executive director of the Center for Safety and Change and Amy Siniscalchi, deputy director.

Domestic violence occurs across all socio-economic groups, races, ethnic and religious groups. A coordinated effort between law enforcement and the courts as well as ongoing support for victims who are often reluctant to speak out.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, during which organizations and advocates nationwide work to bring attention to the widespread issue of domestic violence.

Numerous events are being held in Rockland County to mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Center for Safety and Change has a calendar of events here.